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Emma Reese joins Rabin Worldwide as Director of Growth and Business Operations, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s multi-generational journey. After an impressive career in public relations at a fashion mega-house in New York City, Emma brings her expertise in communications and brand management back to California to join the family business.

As the daughter of company president Richard Reese, Emma joins her father, her brother Sam, and her cousins in continuing the family legacy while positioning Rabin Worldwide for future growth. Emma’s experience in PR campaigns and brand partnerships promises to infuse a fresh perspective into the realm of industrial auctions and equipment liquidations.

A Distinguished Career in High-Profile Public Relations

Emma’s professional journey in high-stakes public relations and brand management yielded some remarkable stories. During her eight-year tenure at Saks Fifth Avenue, she led some of the luxury retailer’s most memorable campaigns and events. She worked directly with  celebrities and popular culture icons, including music legend Elton John, former First Lady Michelle Obama, pop superstar Charli XCX, and many more. These weren’t merely celebrity endorsements—Emma was instrumental in crafting the strategic messaging, negotiating contracts, and ensuring seamless execution from concept to completion. 

Bridging Industries: How PR Excellence Translates to Auction Success

While the worlds of luxury fashion and industrial auctions may seem vastly different, Emma recognizes that the core competencies that made her successful in PR are precisely what the auction industry needs to thrive in today’s marketplace.

“At its core, public relations is about building trust and forging lasting relationships,” Emma explains. “The same principles hold true in the auction business—fostering strong relationships with partners and clients is essential for long-term success.” Her years of cultivating relationships with journalists, influencers, and stakeholders prepared her perfectly for the relationship-driven nature of auction partnerships and deal-making.

Her experience managing cross-functional teams at Saks, collaborating seamlessly between marketing, legal, executive leadership, and creative departments, has prepared her for the collaborative environment at Rabin Worldwide. The demanding deadlines and high-pressure situations that define corporate PR have built her resilience—a crucial asset in the fast-moving auction industry.

Deep Roots: Growing Up in the Auction World

Emma’s connection to Rabin Worldwide is woven into her earliest memories and family identity. From a young age, she was immersed in the world of auctions, often accompanying her father to sales across the country. She remembers sitting on her father’s lap during a live auction of a coffee plant in Houston, captivated by the rapid pace at which he called out bids. The energy in the room was palpable and created a lasting memory that stays with her today. 

This family legacy embodies the deep emotional investment that drives multi-generational enterprises. Emma is joining a team that includes not only her father Richard and brother Sam, but also her cousins, the Rabin family, creating a unique workplace dynamic built on genuine care and shared commitment.

“It’s a privilege to learn from the best in the industry—especially when those people are also your family,” Emma says. “Having access to that level of knowledge while working alongside people who are genuinely invested in my growth and the company’s future is an invaluable opportunity.” The generational bridge she will forge between established expertise and fresh ideas has the potential to create a new chapter for Rabin Worldwide.

Leading Change: A Fresh Perspective in a Traditional Industry

Emma’s arrival introduces new leadership in an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated. She will work alongside her cousin, Shira Weissman, COO of Rabin Worldwide who also served as the first female President of the Industrial Auctioneer’s Association. “Having Emma join the business is more than legacy and succession for Rabin Worldwide. Emma will be a new voice in our industry and will bring a fresh take on our established operations. She will provide a bright new, female perspective on the very male heavy equipment industry. They won’t know what hit ‘em.” Shira remarked. Having spent her career in the female-driven fashion and PR world, Emma is energized by the opportunity to contribute to the company and beyond.

“I’m excited to bring a fresh perspective to the auction industry,” Emma states confidently. “As a woman entering a traditionally male-dominated field, I see a real opportunity to help Rabin stand out—not just through representation, but through meaningful contribution. The skills and insights I’ve developed throughout my career will help us strengthen relationships, increase our visibility, and position Rabin as a forward-thinking force in the industry.”

As she steps into her role as Director of Growth and Business Operations, Emma embodies the next generation of leadership while maintaining deep respect for the company’s established legacy. Her arrival signals an exciting chapter for Rabin Worldwide, one that promises to push innovative approaches to growth and client relationships.

With Emma now part of the team, Rabin Worldwide is well-positioned to continue its tradition of excellence while exploring new opportunities for expansion and industry leadership.